1996 BMW 523 vs. 2012 Audi S4
To start off, 2012 Audi S4 is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW 523. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW 523 would be higher. At 3,000 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Audi S4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Audi S4 (333 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 163 more horse power than 1996 BMW 523. (170 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Audi S4 should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW 523.
Because 2012 Audi S4 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 BMW 523. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Audi S4 will offer significantly more control. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2012 Audi S4 (440 Nm @ 2900 RPM) has 195 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW 523. (245 Nm @ 3950 RPM). This means 2012 Audi S4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW 523.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW 523 | 2012 Audi S4 | |
| Make | BMW | Audi |
| Model | 523 | S4 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 3000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 333 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 440 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 2900 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4704 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1829 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1427 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2809 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 64 L |
